England captain Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket during the ongoing third and final Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, confirming that he will call time on his international career following the third and final Test against New Zealand. 

Stokes informed his England teammates of his decision during the tea interval on the fourth day of the Test. Soon after, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that the match would bring an end to the all-rounder's distinguished international career. 

"Ben Stokes leaves the international game as one of England's greatest ever cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation. His performances under pressure, his relentless competitiveness and his ability to produce the extraordinary when it matters most have given me and millions of other fans memories that will endure forever," Richard Thompson, ECB Chair, said in a statement.

 “Whether inspiring victory in the biggest moments - not least driving England to World Cup wins in 2019 and 2022 and his heroic Ashes innings at Headingley - or leading the Test team with courage and conviction, Ben has been a talismanic figure in English cricket. Beyond his remarkable achievements on the field, his performances have inspired many youngsters to embrace cricket with positivity and belief. We are losing a batsman, a bowler, a captain and a talisman. On behalf of the ECB, I want to thank Ben for everything he has given to our sport and wish him and his family every success and happiness for the future," he said.

Stokes, who began his international career in 2011, has played a huge role in England's success over the years. His jaw-dropping unbeaten 84 in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup final helped England secure their maiden ODI world title. And his heroic 135 unbeaten at Headingley during the 2019 Ashes remains one of the defining knocks in Test cricket.